Canadian Soccer News has been told that Paul Barber resigned as CEO of the Whitecaps because he no longer felt that the relationship between himself, president Bob Lenarduzzi and owner Greg Kerfoot was workable.
“There's rumours of a disagreement with Bobby (Lenarduzzi) on issues,” a well placed source said. “Barber has micromanaged everything last season. Departments weren't allowed to make their own decisions without him having the final ok. He's vetoed a lot.”
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That position was backed up by members of the Southsiders supporter’s group.
“Bobby vs. Paul and Bobby won,” a member said. “(The) word from the office is that they have not been communicating with each other for some time and there was hatred and anger for each other. So I guess Barber...walked.”
It’s suggested that much of the conflict stemmed from cultural differences between the Englishman Barber and the Canadians. Barber was seen to be attempting to bring “a UK style to North America,” the source said. “It wasn’t working. I can’t say as I’m upset he’s gone.”
Despite that conflict – which was said to be a poorly kept secret – news of his resignation caught the soccer community in Vancouver off guard.
“It's come as a big surprise to most here,” the source said.
Although most observers are suggesting that Barber will return to England, there is some suggestion that Barber will resurface in an executive position at MLS head office.
The Whitecaps were contacted this afternoon to comment. As of publication they had yet to respond. The story will be updated with their response if and when it is provided.